High honors student Michael Lamanna, delivers the class farewell at Atlantic Cape’s Commencement on May 19.

The Lindback Distinguished Teaching Excellence Award was presented to Cheryl Knowles-Harrigan of Milmay, assistant professor of art. Linwood attorney Michael Rann received the President’s Distinguished Alumni Award, which recognizes an Atlantic Cape graduate who has distinguished him or herself through professional, personal, public or community-based accomplishments. In addition, James Cooper Esq. of Margate, president emeritus of the Atlantic Cape Foundation, received the first President’s Distinguished Foundation Board Member Award, which recognizes a current or past member of the board who has demonstrated leadership, advocacy and support on behalf of the college and its students.

High honors student Michael Lamanna of Stone Harbor, 34, who achieved a perfect 4.0 average, delivered the class farewell. Lamanna received an associate in science degree in general studies. Lamanna joined the college in 2009, after working for 12 years in the theater, film and television industry. Lamanna is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. After graduation, he plans to pursue a degree in English at a four-year school.

“In my time at Atlantic Cape, I became a part of this small college community, and I learned what it really means to be a part of my larger community outside of the school,” he said. “In this modern world that ascribes a high value to ambition and often revolves around technology that can increase personal isolation and alienation, I cannot stress enough how important it is that we not forget what it means to be a part of a community.”

Student Government Association President Wanda Lugo of Pleasantville, 21, told the graduates: “It is our time to shine and show the world who we are and what we bring to the table. No matter how hard it gets, try your hardest, never give up on things that seem impossible to obtain.”
Brian Ferrante of Woodbine was elected by the student body to serve as alumni representative to the college’s board of trustees, and was recognized. He earned an associate in science degree in general studies.